Hadiza Ali-Musa, the former wife of the Niger State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Yakubu Kolo, has publicly accused the commissioner of persistent threats, intimidation, and emotional abuse—allegations she claims have continued even after the end of their marriage.
Hadiza, 38, revealed that the marriage, which lasted for nine years, was marked by relentless emotional trauma. According to her, the abuse was so severe that she was compelled to seek legal separation through the courts. However, she lamented that the intimidation did not end with the divorce.
“I left the marriage through legal means because I could no longer withstand the emotional suffering,” Hadiza stated in a public appeal.
“But rather than gaining peace, I now live in constant fear. He is using his political influence and public office to make life unbearable for me, and to undermine my role as a mother to our two children.”
She further alleged that the commissioner has actively interfered with her efforts to care for their children, and at one point orchestrated her arrest by sending law enforcement officers to detain her without justification.
Describing her current ordeal, Hadiza emphasized that the situation has escalated beyond a personal dispute and has become a serious threat to her life and that of her children. She called on the Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago, and the State Commissioner of Police to urgently intervene and guarantee her safety.
“This is no longer a private matter—it’s about my survival and the well-being of my children,” she said.
In response to the allegations, Commissioner Yakubu Kolo denied the accusations when approached by the press. He refrained from commenting extensively, stating that the matter is already before the court.
“She has taken the case to court. If she believes in the judicial process, then why is she taking it to the media?” he remarked.
Despite the commissioner’s denial, Hadiza’s claims have stirred public concern, particularly among gender rights advocates. Several civil society organizations (CSOs) based in Minna have urged the state government to conduct an impartial investigation and ensure that Hadiza is protected from any form of harassment or abuse, regardless of the status of the alleged perpetrator.
Observers have noted that the case raises broader questions about the ability and willingness of institutions to respond when allegations of gender-based violence involve individuals in positions of political power. Calls are growing louder for transparency, accountability, and immediate action to uphold justice and protect vulnerable parties in such circumstances.